BMW 435i xDrive Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost

Know what price you should pay to get your vehicle fixed.

The average cost for a BMW 435i xDrive Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement is between $379 and $445. Labor costs are estimated between $246 and $311 while parts are priced between $133 and $134. Estimate does not include taxes and fees.

What is a crankshaft position sensor?

The crankshaft position sensor is located adjacent to the engine crankshaft, and relays information about the crankshaft’s position of rotation at all times.

How does the crankshaft position sensor work?

As the crankshaft spins, the crankshaft position sensor magnetically reads the crankshaft position from a fixed location beside the shaft. This information is always being sent to the engine computer for comparison with data from the camshaft position sensor. When the two signals reach the computer, they must match for the computer to understand there are no mechanical errors in the engine. If the position of the crankshaft is different than the position of the camshaft, the computer will record that an engine timing problem is occurring, and adjust settings as designed.

What are the symptoms related to a bad crankshaft position sensor?

When the computer senses the engine is out of time, the check engine light will be displayed, and the engine may start and stall, or fail to start. Some models may prevent the ignition from attempting to start the engine. If the engine runs, it will experience loss of power, poor fuel mileage, restricted performance for engine and transmission, hesitation before accelerating and intermittent stalling. Lastly, OBD trouble codes will be stored for the crankshaft and camshaft position.

Can I drive with a crankshaft position sensor problem?

Driving a vehicle with a failed camshaft or crankshaft position sensor is most often impossible. If driving is possible, it is not recommended. If the sensor is functioning normally, the engine may be out of time, or may have suffered mechanical failure.

How often do crankshaft position sensors need to be replaced?

The crankshaft position sensor does not have a recommended replacement interval. Depending on the vehicle or driving conditions, the sensor can last the useful life of the vehicle. Failure of the crankshaft position sensor is not uncommon however, and likelihood increases as the vehicle passes 100,000 miles.

Related BMW 435i xDrive Estimates

How are crankshaft position sensor issues diagnosed?

When the vehicle is connected to a professional grade scanner, the position of the crankshaft and camshaft are read, and compared to actual engine position. If the reading is inconsistent for camshaft or crankshaft sensor, the sensor will be tested, and replaced if necessary.

Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement Cost Estimates

The average cost for a Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement is between $379 and $445 but can vary from car to car.

How is a crankshaft position sensor replaced?

Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor is completed by disconnecting any electrical connector, and unscrewing the sensor. If required, sealant will be applied before re-inserting the new sensor into the engine. Finally the electrical connector is connected, and the vehicle is tested to confirm the repair. On some vehicles the crankshaft position sensor is located inside the engine block, and significant deconstruction is required to replace the sensor. In the event the sensor is internal, we recommend trusting a professional technician with the repair.

OBD codes related to Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement

RepairPal Recommendations for crankshaft position sensor issues

OEM quality sensors should be used as lesser products will likely cause a repeated repair. Also, the vehicle's timing belt should be inspected if crankshaft position or camshaft position trouble codes are stored. If the timing belt or timing chain has failed, the engine should be immediately placed out of service.

What to look out for when dealing with crankshaft position sensor issues

OBD trouble codes related to the crankshaft and camshaft do not imply faulty sensors, but imply a fault in the engine. This can be narrowed down to the sensors, but replacing the sensor without testing may lead to unnecessary costs.

Can I replace the crankshaft position sensor myself?

Replacing a sensor is only a DIY capable project if the issue can be positively diagnosed at home. If the issue cannot be diagnosed at home, a technician should be trusted with the issue before changing parts leads to excessive repair bills without a solution.